Delaney will stay involved as an assistant to new coach Simon Riddoch, but his decision is a further blow to a list that has already lost the likes star forward Jordan Erskine, the versatile Adam Donohue, inside midfielder Brad Surkitt, talented youngster Matt Boag, and defensive duo Jordan Harrison and Beau McNamara.

However, he is confident Grovedale will remain competitive with the addition of names like Cassidy Parish, Keelin Betson, Jacob Bruns, Alex McCann, Matthew Harvey and Zac Urquhart.

“I would have loved to stayed on with the young, vibrant group that are looking to create their own culture and their own way,” Delaney said.

“I wouldn’t wipe us completely off; I know a lot of people have.

“We’re just going about our business pretty quietly and are happy with where we’re sitting at the minute.”